Cork Hellhounds: The Rebel County's First LGBTQ Inclusive Rugby Team

What motivated you to set up the Cork Hellhounds rugby club?

I have recently moved back home to Cork from Dublin, where I spent time playing with the Emerald Warriors. I had such an amazing time with them; learning rugby, playing games and making lots of new friends. I saw the effect that the Warriors have on the LGBTQIA+ community in Dublin and beyond. I witnessed the important message that an-inclusive rugby team sends to the world. I wanted to recreate all of that in Cork with the atmosphere of fun, friends and exercise through rugby. 

Obviously the latest Covid restrictions are going to have an impact on the training over the next few weeks but what do you envisage the training will be like and what would someone need to take part?

The Covid restrictions are going to be hard on everyone, but we want the Cork Hellhounds to provide an outlet during this pandemic where possible. 

We have only had a handful of training sessions so we will be adapting to weekly Zoom calls with players during lockdown. As many who have joined us so far are new to the game, we will be reviewing and discussing the rules and techniques of rugby, as well as some social events to get to know one another. We also have some excellent experienced members who will be on hand to provide insight and extra information to ensure that these sessions are beneficial to all. 

After the restrictions relax and when it's safe to do so, we will return to a training venue once a week for an hour. Currently, the best place for us is at the Glen Resource Centre 5-a-side all weather pitches, on a Friday night, 7-8pm. 

When we are back on for training, we are starting low level, non-contact training. Attire would be shorts, t-shirt, trainers and bring water. Different types of shoes are required on different pitch surfaces - 5-a-side pitches can be trainers or boots with plastic studs. This would be communicated before hand if need be. There is not an immediate requirement for getting a mouth shield. We, as a team, will be building up to full contact tackles after a few months. 

I would like to get to the stage where the training sessions are longer and twice a week; that's more of a heads up to the current players!

Gym work is essential for rugby players. Strength training in particular is advantageous to the sport, it helps you run and tackle. If you have the equipment, get in the compound lifts of squats, deadlifts and bench press as much as you can with adequate rest periods. I like kettlebells and find burpees effective for overall rugby fitness. 

What do you think LGBTQ people in Cork could gain from getting involved in this club?

There is a lot to gain from getting involved. This is a group of very like minded people from around the city and further afield, getting together to play a great sport and then have great nights out. There are opportunities where you will be able to put your own stamp on the club by helping out. 

Who can join the Hellhounds? 

The Hellhounds are open to all kinds of players over the age of 18, from absolute beginners to people who have played for years. Membership isn't restricted to the LGBTQIA+ community alone either – allies are welcome also. 

We will have a supporters club, which I feel is very important because there are many people who would like to get involved, help out and advise without committing to training/playing. We want to include supporters as much as possible. 

What advice would you have for someone who is thinking of joining the club but still has some doubts? 

Doubts are natural for anyone starting something new, and rugby can appear daunting at first, but there is a very warm welcome awaiting anyone who wishes to get involved. It's best to understand that most of us are in the same boat, learning a new sport or making new friends. It's a great atmosphere and we are understanding of a person's individual playing level. 

You are welcome to come and check out the training (when we're allowed) and ask questions. There is not a requirement to play or train, you can simply join to support and hang out.

If you would like to contact the club directly you can email rugby@gayproject.ie or find them on Facebook and Instagram